This guideline is for horses with a mature body weight range of 1100-1300 lbs. (500-590 kg.). The amount of feed given at any one time should be no more than 0.5% of the horse’s body weight. For example, a 1000 lb. horse should be fed no more than 5 lbs. per feeding.

Each horse has individual feeding needs. As a general guideline, horses on excellent hay or pasture may require half the amount of feed. Horses on extremely poor hay or pasture may need double the amount of feed.

The hay in this guideline is an average quality mixed hay (12% crude protein and 0.85-0.90 Mcal/lb.). As the hay quality drops, the amount of feed will need to be increased and a higher protein level may also be required. Conversely, better quality hay can reduce the quantity of feed needed and may also allow for a lower protein feed. Pasture contains approximately 70 to 80% moisture whereas hay contains approximately 10% moisture. Therefore, 1 lb. of hay is equivalent to 3 to 4.5 lbs. of fresh pasture.

Feeding levels may vary with the seasons, type of forage, requirements for maintenance, pregnancy, lactation, amount of work and the general condition of the horse. Always provide reasonable quality hay and/or pasture; clean, fresh water and salt. Do not feed additional proteins, vitamins or minerals except on the advice of a nutritionist. Consult your veterinarian concerning proper health programs.

For nursing foals, Original® 16 Textured is recommended.

If, for whatever reason, a horse is fed less than 4 lbs. of feed per day, a comprehensive supplement such as McCauley’s M30® should be considered as an alternative. Please consult our nutritionists for more information.

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, home and nursery of the world’s finest horses, McCauley Feeds (McCauley’s) has been building champion equine athletes since 1938. McCauley’s, now an Alltech company, is a dedicated equine-only nutrition company specializing in the formulation of premium feeds and nutritional supplements...Read More ›